Australia's unique wildlife
Return to Archive

Australia has many animals, birds and fish that are not found anywhere else in the world. But are the animals dangerous, and do kangaroos hop around the local shopping mall? Read on to see if there is any truth to these questions...

Australia is full of dangerous animals - I will have to be very careful when I am there
.

This is not true. Australia is home to some dangerous animals but it is not a common everyday event to meet these species. In fact, you will probably not see any of them during your stay unless you visit a zoo or animal sanctuary. Should you travel to any country or outback areas, where there is a possibility of seeing dangerous animals, there will be park literature or signs advising you of this possibility and how to avoid danger.

Australian animals like kangaroos and koalas walk around in the streets
.

Once again, this is not true. You can see native birds in the suburbs and brush-tail possums can often be seen at night, but generally the animals you will see in the city are the animals you will see in your home city. People have dogs and cats as pets, along with goldfish, birds, and rabbits.

To fully appreciate the native wildlife of Australia you will need to go to zoos or native reserves, visit national parks, or explore the Australian country or outback regions.

Australia is home to many unique (and cute) animals

This is true. Because Australia is an island, many native plants and animals are unique, and you will not see many species anywhere else. While you are here you will definitely want to visit the zoo in your city to see Australian wildlife, or travel to national parks and country areas to discover what is around!